Eight ways to style a silk scarf this summer

One scarf eight ways.

There’s something eternally stylish about a silk scarf. Of course, it’s buttery softness is a major drawcard. But the appeal also lies in the endless ways you can wear it. In fact, you rarely see one worn as a plain old scarf these days – it’s always been twisted, tied and distorted into a completely different piece.

The underrated accessory, probably beloved by your grandma, is making the rounds online and it’s not hard to see why. Within seconds, you can transform it from a hair piece into top, a belt, or even a carry bag. Plus, it takes up virtually no space in a suitcase, making it a holiday wardrobe staple.

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The spectrum for a silk scarf is fairly broad, too. Every luxury fashion house makes a version, including Dior, Toteme and famously, Hermès. More locally, you can find styles at various price points. Jac and Jack’s Vista silk scarf, Dissh’s Percy Bitter Choc silk scarf and Assembly Label’s silk square scarf are all effortless options if you lean towards monochrome tones.

If you prefer pattern, Oroton’s Graphic Shell Silk scarf and Ngali’s Gifting of Country Silk Square scarf will instantly add some colour and texture to your outfit. Or, of course, you can raid your local op shop, vintage store or nonna’s house for a pre-loved find. Perhaps you’re already in possession of one and just need the inspiration for how to wear it.

As a belt

One classic way to style your silk scarf is around your waist. You can layer it over anything – from a skirt and pants, to a loose-fitting dress to help cinch it in at the waist. Alternatively, thread it through the straps on your jeans and wear it as a belt.

In your hair

The silk scarf doesn’t have to be restricted to your outfit. Whether its woven into a plait or threaded into a ponytail, it’s an easy way to add some colour to your hair.

Around your neck

A silk wrap wrapped around your neck is endlessly classic – wear it as a classic tie, a neck bandana or simply loop it around a few times until you run out of length.

As a bag

Slightly more ambitious, but another option is tying it into a bag. This video from local label, Sir, shows how to achieve this with the aid of just a few knots.

As a top

The easiest way to wear a silk scarf as a top is to fold it in half and knot it as your back, transforming it into a strapless top. But why stop there? Pinterest is full of creative approaches if you’re up for a challenge.

On a bag

Simple and fun, you can always tie your scarf to the strap of your bag if you’re running out the door and short on time.

As a bandana

Ever since singer Gracie Abrahams took to the stage at Glastonbury earlier this year, the bandana has had a big comeback. Fold it in half, and half again, then tie at the base of your head.

Around your shoulders

And of course, there’s over the shoulders (arguably what the scarf was arguably always intended for). But if you’re still feeling the itch to mix it up, try knotting it close to the ends.

For more styling inspiration, try this.